Common Commercial Truck AC Problems

Temperatures in some parts of the country can reach over 100 degrees. As a commercial truck driver, you know that air conditioning is essential to stay cool on the road. After all, you don’t want your job to be miserable because it’s too hot in the cab, especially during longer trips. AC problems are common, and there are only a few reasons why your truck’s AC is not working properly.

How Air Conditioning Works

If you are not familiar with how air conditioning works, it will be more difficult to understand why you are having AC problems.

The process of making your truck cab feel like an igloo involves transferring a vapor refrigerant such as freon through components including a compressor, condenser, throttle valve, expansion hose, blower motor, and evaporator. The AC lowers the temperature of the cab or other enclosed spaces by removing heat from the space and cooling it.

The refrigerant passes through a compressor under high pressure, which also heats it up. It then flows to the condenser near the radiator, where it condenses after cool water or air flows across the coils or tubes. The liquid refrigerant then passes through an expansion hose or valve to reduce pressure before entering the evaporator, resulting in flash evaporation with an assist from the blower motor. This evaporation causes the refrigerant to be colder than the air it is replacing. It then runs through the evaporator and is dispersed by a fan just inside the vent from which the cold air flows. The process then starts over to provide a continuous flow of cool air into the cab while expelling hot air.

Common AC Problems

Air conditioning relies on several parts and systems working together to keep the cool air flowing. Failure of any one of them can cause your AC to stop working.

  • Leaking refrigerant

Refrigerant leaks are the top reason for AC problems. The refrigerant can leak from hoses, O-rings, compressors, and evaporators for several reasons, including general malfunctions and defects in parts. In addition, shoddy installation, corrosion, and wear and tear over time can result in leaks. Without the refrigerant, your AC won’t be putting out cool air in your cab.

  • Electrical failure

Like many other functions in your truck, the AC relies on electrical power to work. A weak battery, bad wiring, a blown fuse, or a faulty switch could all be responsible for your AC problems. The condenser fan is powered by an electric motor. An electrical problem can result in the fan not blowing air out of the vent in the dashboard. Thankfully, most electrical issues are easy to fix.

  • Compressor failure

A compressor is made to exclusively pump air. Therefore, if water, dirt, or another substance such as oil gets inside the compressor, it must work a lot harder to keep the air conditioning process going. The result is an overworked compressor that will just quit working because it can’t handle the non-air materials. The cost to replace a compressor can range between $300 to $1,000 plus the cost of labor.

  • Condenser blockage

Condensers convert gas into liquids, so more solid materials such as dirt don’t agree with them. A buildup of materials over time can cause a blockage as the layers accumulate on the coils, preventing the refrigerant from properly cooling down. Instead of cool air, your AC vent will pump hot air into the cab, which is definitely the last thing you need on a hot day.

  • Contamination

The AC works by turning a refrigerant into a liquid and then back into a gas to create cool air. There is also a process of turning hot air into cool air. These processes can cause mold to grow in the AC unit. If left unchecked, this mold can spread throughout the system and cause problems.

  • Stuck Blower Resistor

Sometimes, the blower resistor can get stuck, preventing you from changing the speed of the airflow through the fan. This is yet another simple problem that is an easy fix.

Signs of AC Problems

There are many signs that your truck is having AC problems. Being aware of and noting these signs can help identify what is going on and how to fix the problem.

  • Low air pressure
  • Blowing hot air
  • Leaks and stains
  • Weird noises
  • Bad odors

Should you observe any of these signs, have a technician service your vehicle. Fixing smaller problems early can prevent them from becoming bigger problems.

Preventing AC Problems

Like other parts of your commercial truck, regularly inspecting and maintaining the AC system is the best way to catch problems or prevent them entirely.

  • Routinely check for leaks by using the dye test to see if any refrigerant is leaking out. Make sure your hose fittings are tight.
  • Refill the refrigerant from time to time because it can run out after enough use. You want to locate the low-pressure valve to recharge the system while being careful to not overcharge it.
  • Check filters and vents for layers of dirt, dust, and grime buildup. You might even find mold to remove.
  • Ultimately, taking your truck to a professional for inspection and maintenance is the best option. It will cost a little more, but a pro will know exactly what to look for and how to fix any problems they encounter.
  • Keep a checklist handy to record the date of the inspection or maintenance and any installation of new parts.

Contact Stronghold Trucking

Stronghold Trucking is ready to prevent or fix your commercial truck’s AC problems. Our professionals have the skill and expertise to make sure your AC  is running at peak condition to keep you cool every summer. There is no HVAC diagnostic or repair that is too big or small for us to service. We not only repair problems, but we also provide inspections and maintenance to prevent them from happening. If you think you have AC problems, please call us at 914-235-8280 or visit our website today! If you can’t come to us, we will gladly come to you.

We proudly serve Westchester County, Putnam County, Dutchess County, Orange County, and the New York City Metropolitan area.

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